Authentic religion

As an ordained Anglican, I am appalled that while Buddhist monks are taken from their beds, beaten and imprisoned for peacefully protesting in the name of democracy, Anglican bishops can only concern themselves with the obsession of denying gay and lesbian Christians an opportunity to share their spiritual gifts and experience through ordained ministry. For me it is clear in which of these two groups spiritual authenticity resides. I offer my heartfelt prayers on behalf of the monks of Burma.
Rev Mike Catling Alnwick, Northumberland

Gordon Brown says "we aim for the first time for five hours a week sport" for British children (Brown spells out what he stands for, September 25). Yet at present 14% of visually impaired children participate in less than one hour of PE a week. Under a third receives the government requirement of two hours a week. We run very popular sports clubs, but to date have received little funding from the government. Blind and partially sighted children and young people must not be left on the sidelines. Colin Vince Action for Blind People

How comforting to know that Jack Straw has apprehended criminals on our streets on four separate occasions (Leaders, September 28). Clearly he's wasted at the Department of Justice. The Met should get him out on the beat.Tim Daniel London

There may be no roadworks down south (Letters, September 27), but here in Scotland it is cone heaven on the M8, M80, Kincardine, Forth and Tay Bridges. So if Mr Brown is planning an early election, he ought to visit his own back yard.Nick Hartley Motherwell

Three New Labour majorities to change a light bulb. After another three will we have stopped plastic bags?Jeremy Cushing Exeter

A collared dove is nesting in our magnolia tree (Letters, passim). One egg has fallen out; one just hatched. Winds a problem - hanging on for dear life, but otherwise OK.Petrina Stevens Sherington, Bucks